Understanding the Context
Jonathon Swift
Jonathon Swift was born in Dublin, Ireland on November 30th, 1667. His father died before he was born. Although born in Irish, he was of English blood with his father moving to Ireland after the English Civil War. Swift attended Trinity College Dublin and studied courses in philosophy and logic. Interestingly, this curriculum was designed in the Middle Ages for those studying for the priesthood. It can be assumed that it was here where Swift developed his quick wit and dry sense of humour. Swift would later go on to become the Dean of the Protestant St. Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin.
Plantations in Ireland
At the time of Swift's birth, Ireland was firmly controlled by the English Crown. This control largely came about as a result of the plantation system which sought to replace the native Irish, who were Catholic, with Protestants (mostly from Scotland) loyal to England. This can be seen clearly by looking at the map below.
Land Ownership and the Protestant Ascendency
Watch the video below to learn how the issue of land ownership led to an increase in Protestant power in Ireland. Consider why this would increase tensions between the Irish people and the English colonizer.
Oliver Cromwell "Reconquest" of Ireland
At this time, the history of Europe was largely tied to conflicts between Catholics and Protestants. This was even more true when discussing Britain and Ireland. Since Henry VIII broke with the Catholic Church England has both Catholic and Protestant leaders. This ultimately led to the English Civil War and Oliver Cromwell coming to power as the Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland and Ireland. Cromwell was a Protestant and devout in his opposition to the Catholic faith. As Ireland was predominantly Catholic, a conflict was brewing. Hear more about this conflict by watching the video on the left.
Objective (E04.2): Analyze how satire is created and used to support an argument.
Objective (E04.3): Annotate reasons and evidence used in a formal or personal argument from this period.
Objective (EO4.4): Examine how writers use specific diction, syntax and figurative language in nonfiction to develop their ideas and support their arguments.
Objective (EO4.1): Make inferences about Restoration culture based on the period’s satire and selected readings.
Presenting Your Own Views
Objective EO4.5: Draft and revise an argument (or short arguments) using elements learned in this unit regarding specific social issues related to the student’s experience and current society.
Objective EO4.6: Present an argument using elements learned in this unit to create awareness or suggest a way to solve a current social issue.